Mountaineering harness

Mountaineering, a discipline that combines climbing, mountain trekking and sometimes ice climbing, requires appropriate, safe equipment. Among the essential elements of this equipment, the harness occupies a central place. The aim of this guide is to equip experienced mountaineers with the knowledge they need to choose the harness best suited to their high-mountain ascents. Discover our best harnesses for mountaineering and other mountaineering equipment.

Understanding the specifics of a mountaineering harness

Mountaineering harnesses differ from those used for sport climbing or working at heights. Designed for extreme environments and long durations, it must meet several specific criteria:

• Lightweight and compact: In the high mountains, every gram counts. A lightweight harness reduces fatigue and facilitates movement on difficult terrain. Compactness is also crucial, as the harness often has to be put on or taken off with mountain boots and thick clothing.
• Comfort and mobility: Mountaineers spend long hours with their harnesses, often loaded down with equipment. Comfort is therefore essential, especially in the waistband and leg straps, which must be sufficiently padded without impeding mobility.
• Resistance and durability: materials must be able to withstand rubbing against rock and ice, as well as extreme temperature variations. Tying points and buckles must be particularly sturdy and reliable.
• Versatility and equipment: a mountaineering harness must have multiple gear loops for attaching ice axes, ice screws and other equipment. Ease of adjustment, even with gloves, is a crucial criterion.

Selecting a harness for different types of mountaineering

Mountaineering is divided into several specialties, each with its own requirements:

• Glacier mountaineering: For glacier routes, opt for a lightweight, simple harness with just enough gear loops for essential equipment. A back loop for the rope bag can be a plus.
• Mixed technical ascents: Here, a baudier offering better weight distribution and several sturdy gear loops is a must. Adjustable leg straps are useful for adapting to different layers of clothing.
• High-mountain courses: choose a heavy-duty baudier with extensive adjustment possibilities and multiple attachment points to handle various situations and loads.

Detailed selection criteria

Materials and construction

Modern baudiers are generally made of nylon or polyester, with all buckles in aluminum. Check that seams are reinforced and materials are abrasion-resistant. The presence of breathable mesh can also be a criterion of choice for improved breathability.

Fitting and sizing

A baudier should fit you perfectly. Test different models with the clothes you'll be wearing on your climbs. Make sure adjustments are simple and can be made quickly.

Safety and certifications

Always check that the baudier complies with current safety standards (UIAA or CE standards). Tie-off points must be clearly marked and tested to withstand high loads.

Choosing the right baudier for mountaineering is no mean feat. It involves striking a balance between comfort, lightness, strength and functionality, while taking into account the specific type of mountaineering practised. A well-chosen baudier is an investment that not only enhances your enjoyment of the mountains, but also guarantees the necessary level of safety in this unforgiving environment.

Don't hesitate to try out different models and seek professional advice to find the baudier that will take you to the summit. Explore our related categories such as Alpine Backpacks, Alpine Crampons, Alpine Ice Axes.